Bill > HB865

This bill modifies the Educational Assistance Program and Military Family Education Program for members of the Pennsylvania National Guard by making several key changes. The bill revises the definition of an "eligible member" to remove the requirement of completing an initial service obligation, and instead focuses on being eligible to enlist or reenlist for a six-year period. It establishes that educational benefits can be renewed with each subsequent six-year service commitment, allowing members to receive successive grant certificates. The bill also clarifies conditions under which members can retain educational benefits if they receive an other-than-dishonorable discharge before completing their six-year service obligation, such as medical discharge not resulting from misconduct or discharge at the convenience of the department. Additionally, the bill modifies recoupment provisions, allowing members to be liable only for a proportional share of grant payments based on their completed service time, rather than the full amount. The legislation aims to provide more flexibility for National Guard members in accessing educational benefits and recognizes various circumstances that might interrupt their service, ensuring they are not entirely penalized for service-related interruptions.

Budget and Finance, Military Affairs and Security

https://www.legis.state.pa.us/cfdocs/billinfo/bill_history.cfm?syear=2025&sind=0&body=H&type=B&bn=865